Free Attractions in Sydney Australia

Sydney is Australia’s largest city and boasts brilliant shopping, culture and weather. For those of us who travel on a tight budget but still want to experience all that Sydney has to offer, fear not, there are plenty of free activities and attractions to keep you interested and make your time there unforgettable.

Sydney

Credit: Eustaquio Santimano

Darling Harbour

A relaxed stroll around Sydney’s famous Darling Harbour is a great way to get acquainted with the city. Lined by quality restaurants and shopping the harbour is always a hub of activity with street entertainers an almost constant presence. The Australian National Maritime Museum can be found here and has free entry. This is a chance to learn all about (and see) some of the historical vessels that make up Australian history.

Art Galleries

The Museum of Contemporary Art in the in The Rocks and the Art Gallery of New South Wales in the Domain both house priceless works of art and best of all have free entry (although it will cost you extra to get into the special exhibitions).

I highly recommend a walk around The Rocks after visiting the Contemporary art museum since it is arguably the most historic area in the city with unique buildings from another time, plenty of high end eateries and pubs loaded with character.

The Opera House

Iconic the world over the pristine white sails of the Opera House are a must see attraction for visitors to Sydney. Not only does it provide spectacular photo opportunities but the beer garden at its base is nestled right against the Harbour and provides thirsty travellers with the chance to grab a drink and enjoy a picture perfect view of the bridge and harbour.

The Harbour Bridge

The World’s tallest steel arch bridge (sometimes referred to affectionately as the big coathanger) has free pedestrian access and crossing it is a rite of passage for anyone who comes to the city while also providing you with the chance to take photos of the magnificent view of the wide blue harbour.

The Beaches

No guide to free activities in Australia can go past the gorgeous beaches and Sydney is no exception. The famous Bondi beach is well worth a look but for something slightly less crowded places like Tamarama beach, Coogee beach and those in the city’s Northern suburbs are just as inviting.

These locations should help you get started with your time in Sydney but are only the tip of the proverbial iceberg!